Watch: Rishabh Pant caught and bowl by Simon Harmer in IND vs SA 1st Test

Variation of Simon Harmer again did the job for South Africa. He took the crucial wicket of Rishabh Pant while the touring team was defending a target of 124 in the second innings of India vs South Africa 1st Test at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata.

In the absence of skipper Shubman Gill, Pant had a huge task to be done. India was already down by three men when he walked into the middle. In the first innings, the South African spin-bowling all-rounder Harmer claimed 4 wickets, and in the second innings, he was looking equally effective on the tricky track of Eden Gardens.

Pant, who is known for his unorthodox batting approach, was in discomfort against the tall spinner. During the 4th delivery of the 20th over of the second innings, Harmer offered extra flight with reduced pace to force the southpaw to get out of his shell. Pant fell on the trap.

Read More: “Andre Russell Hasn’t Done Much in Recent Years”: Ex-Captain Slams Star All-Rounder After IPL 2026 Retentions

Tossed up delivery from Harmer dismissed Rishabh Pant

He tried to hit the ball straight down to the ground. In reality, he produced only a leading edge, which was gently carried to the safe hands of Simon Harmer. Rishabh Pant was dismissed for 2 off 13, and India lost their 4th wicket. As Gill is out of the equation because of the neck injury he received in the first innings, India effectively lost half of their batting strength as soon as Pant departed. 

With the scalp of Pant, Harmer got his 2nd in the final phase of the game. His pace variations and wicket-taking intention proved extremely effective at the Eden Gardens. His bowling quality improved from his days with the County Cricket Club Essex. Before the series against Pakistan, and now against India, the 36-year-old played a vital part for Essex by picking up wickets at regular intervals.